Finding the right boat for you

Australians love the water. With coastlines spanning over 30,000 kilometres and a river system that snakes across the continent, it’s no wonder boating is so popular. There are approximately one million boats registered in Australia. While most aren’t luxurious superyachts and are more likely to be small dinghies, that’s still a lot of vessels.

With dozens of different types of boats to choose from (with many sub-categories underneath them), there’s something out there to suit all lifestyles. We’ve taken a look at 6 different profiles and matched them with some of the most popular boat styles to help you choose which boat is right for you. 

Down to earth

If you’re the sort of person who doesn’t need bells and whistles, you might suit one of the most affordable and useful types of boat; a dinghy. Often towed on a larger boat, these small vessels are used to venture into shallow water, or to evacuate in case of emergency. They’re commonly made from fibreglass or inflatable rubber and can be rowed with oars or powered by an outboard motor. 

A dinghy is great for getting from A to B in shallow, reasonably calm water. It can be used for fishing on a lake or river, but without some of the comforts that other boats have, you may not want to spend all day in it.

Luxury lover

If you have no issue splurging on the finer things in life, you might consider a luxurious cabin cruiser. These power boats have accommodation for crew and passengers and are generally under 12 meters long. They have creature comforts such as air conditioning, kitchen fitout and bathroom facilities so that you can cruise on the water and spend a few nights away. They’re great for an extended fishing trip, or simply enjoying a cruise in the ocean, with sundecks for lounging and ladders to help reboard after going for a dip. But they do come with a hefty price tag and can be difficult to manoeuvre for those new to sailing.

Retiree

If the 9 to 5 rush no longer applies to you and you’ve got time to take the long way, the best boat for your lifestyle could be a houseboat. A houseboat does what it says on the tin; it’s a boat you can live in. Designed primarily for holiday accommodation, houseboats are especially spacious with numerous living spaces inside and out. They’re best for sailing leisurely on lakes or rivers and can generally host big groups of people. They don’t handle rough seas well though, and you may use it just as often attached to a port as you do out in the water.

Nature admirer

For people who love bird watching, bush walking and who feel most content when they’re surrounded by nature, a canoe could be the perfect boat for you. Canoes are narrow, lightweight boats that are propelled with paddles. This style of boat has been around for thousands of years. Canoeing is also a great way to explore a calm body of water. It’s quiet and so you will notice more wildlife as you won’t scare it away.

Canoeing is a great way to keep fit, requiring core strength and cardio. However even if you just want to paddle at a relaxed pace, the full body movement, which requires balance and patience, can be almost meditative and good for your mental health. For their size, they can often fit quite a lot of supplies, making them perfect for getting to a campground off the beaten track.

Family

If you’re looking for a boat that the whole family will enjoy, the best boat for you might be the popular, versatile, bowrider. Want to tow a water skier, go fishing in the ocean or cruise along a river? A bowrider can do all three. With a canopy for shade and plenty of safe seating, these boats have something for everyone. It’s better for taking on day trips, instead of overnight adventures, and can be powered by either a sterndrive or outboard motor.

Fan of fishing

If you’re happiest in open water with a fishing rod in hand, and really just need to boat to help accommodate your fishing passion, you might be best suited to a centre console.  These hardy, open hull boats have the helm (steering station) and controls in the centre, with seating in both the front and back of the boat. While this style of boat is versatile, they’re typically what you think of when you picture a recreational fishing boat. They handle the rough water well and are a safe option for quickly travelling a long distance. The position of the console means the captain has a clear 360 degree view which helps with manoeuvring.

These boats are often equipped with fishing accessories such as rod holders, but don’t have the comforts of other boat styles. Generally they have minimal shade and it can be awkward to talk when you have some people riding on the front of the boat and some at the back. They’re good for activities, such as fishing or diving, but less suitable for lounging around and relaxing.

When you decide which boat is right for your lifestyle and finally take the plunge, don’t forget to get it insured to protect it from fire, theft, collisions and more.